Table

ABSTRACT

A table may include a table top, a frame and one or more legs. The table may also include one or more corner guards that are sized and configured to protect the table. The corner guards may be generally aligned with the table top and/or the frame. The corner guards may also facilitate attachment of the frame to the table top and the corner guards may facilitate stacking of the table. In addition, the corner guards may allow an aesthetically pleasing table to be constructed and, if the corner guards are selectively attached, then the corner guards may be easily repaired and/or replaced.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/633,067, filed on Dec. 3, 2004.

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/949,777, filed on Sep. 24, 2004; which claims priority toand the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/513,161, filed Oct. 20, 2003. U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/949,777, filed on Sep. 24, 2004, is also a continuation-in-part ofUnited States Design Pat. Application Serial No. 29/192,259, filed Oct.20, 2003.

Each of these applications is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to furniture, in particular, totables that include a table top and one or more support legs.

2. Description of Related Art

Conventional tables are used for a variety of purposes and come in awide array of designs. Conventional tables often include table topsconstructed from wood, particle board or metal. Table tops constructedfrom wood, particle board or metal, however, are often relatively heavyand this may make the table awkward or difficult to move. Conventionaltable tops constructed from wood or metal are also relatively expensiveand the table tops must generally be treated or finished before use. Forexample, table tops constructed from wood must generally be sanded andpainted, and metal table tops must be formed into the desired shape andpainted. In addition, these relatively heavy table tops may increase thecost of shipping, transportation and/or storage of the tables.

In order to decrease the weight of conventional tables, table tops canbe constructed from relatively light-weight materials.Disadvantageously, these light-weight table tops frequently requirereinforcing members or other structural parts such as braces, brackets,support members and the like to strengthen the table top. While theseadditional parts may increase the strength of the table top, theadditional parts may also increase the weight of the table. In addition,these additional parts may increase manufacturing costs and requireadditional time to assemble the table. For example, additional fastenersmay be required to connect these additional parts to the table, whichmay require extra time and labor during the manufacturing process. Theadditional parts and fasteners may also increase the cost of the tableand make the table more difficult to manufacture. Furthermore, theseadditional parts may have sharp edges that can injure the user's legs,arms or other body parts.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A need therefore exists for a table that reduces or eliminates theabove-described or other disadvantages and problems.

One aspect is a table that may be relatively lightweight, which mayallow the table to be more easily transported and moved. For example,the table may include a lightweight table top that reduces the overallweight of the table. The table may also include a lightweight frame thatis connected to the table top. The lightweight frame may also be used tosupport all or a portion of the table top. In addition, the table mayinclude one or more lightweight legs or support pedestals that supportthe table top above a surface such as the ground or a floor. Thelightweight table top, lightweight frame and/or lightweight legs mayallow a lightweight table to be constructed.

Another aspect is a table that may include one or more legs that arecapable of being moved between a use position and a storage position.The legs preferably extend outwardly from the table top in the useposition and the legs may support the table top above a surface such asthe floor. In the storage position, the legs are preferably collapsedinto a relatively compact area, which may allow the table to be easilytransported or stored. The legs, in the collapsed position, may beplaced generally adjacent, parallel and/or proximate to at least aportion the bottom surface of the table top. Of course, the legs couldbe disposed in other suitable positions.

Yet another aspect is a table that may include a table top constructedfrom a lightweight material. Advantageously, the lightweight table topmay allow a table to be created that is easily portable and can bereadily lifted and moved by a single person. Desirably, the table top isconstructed from blow-molded plastic, such as high density polyethylene.The blow-molded plastic table top may provide a rigid, high-strengthstructure that is capable of withstanding repeated use and wear. Theblow-molded table top may also be quickly, easily and efficientlymanufactured, and the blow-molded table top may be readily formed intothe desired size, shape and configuration. In addition, the blow-moldedtable top may include a hollow interior portion formed during the blowmolding process and two opposing walls that are spaced apart apredetermined distance, which may help to increase the strength andrigidity of the table top. The blow-molded table top may also includeone or more depressions or tack-offs, and the depressions may bedesigned to increase the strength of the table top and/or interconnectthe spaced apart walls. Significantly, the blow-molded table top may berelatively lightweight, durable, weather resistant, temperatureinsensitive and resistant to corrosion, rust and the like. It will beappreciated that the table top can be formed in various shapes, sizes,configurations and designs; and the table top may be formed by othersuitable processes or methods.

Still aspect is a table that may include a frame attached to the tabletop. The frame may be attached to a lower portion of the table top and,if desired, at least a portion of the frame may be exposed to the user.For example, the frame may include one or more portions, such as siderails, that extend along at least a portion of the table top. Inparticular, the frame may include two side rails that are disposed alongopposing edges or sides of the table top. The side rails may begenerally aligned or flush with the sides of the table top. The siderails may also have outer surfaces that are generally aligned with theedges of the table top. For example, the side rails may have generallyplanar outer surfaces that are generally aligned with generally planarouter surfaces of the table top. It will be appreciated that the siderails and table top may also have other suitable configurations andarrangements. Further, it will be appreciated that the side rails may bespaced inwardly from the sides of the table to allow, for example, theedge of the table top to be grasped or held. This may allow the table tobe easily moved or transported. The frame may also include otherportions and these portions may be connected to the table top, ifdesired. For instance, the frame may include end rails that are disposedalong the ends of the table top. While portions of the frame, such asthe side rails and/or end rails, may be disposed about the perimeter orouter edges of the table, all or a portion of the frame could also bespaced inwardly from the perimeter or outer edges of the table top.

Advantageously, if at least a portion of the frame is exposed, then thatmay indicate to the user or purchaser that the table has increasedstrength and/or rigidity than a conventional table. Thus, the exposedframe may create a perception of a stronger table. In addition, if theframe is disposed along the outer edges of the table top, the frame mayprovide increased support for the edges or extremities of the table top.Therefore, the frame may be used to create a stronger and/or more rigidtable, and/or the appearance of a stronger and/or more rigid table.Further, if the frame is disposed along the outer edges of the tabletop, then the frame may help prevent the table top from being damaged.For example, the frame may absorb impacts or forces because it isdisposed about the perimeter of the table top that otherwise would beapplied directly to the table top. Accordingly, the frame may also helpprotect the table top from being dented, damaged or broken. In addition,if at least a portion of the frame is exposed, then tables with variousaesthetics, styles and designs may be created. For example, the exposedframe may provide a color contrast with the table top. That is, thetable top may be one color and the frame may have a different color inorder to create a table with a stylized appearance. Of course, the tabletop and frame may have the same or similar color, if desired.

Still yet another aspect is a table that may include a frame attached tothe outer edges of the table top to allow, for example, wider table legsto be used in connection with the table. For example, the table mayinclude two side rails that are disposed along the sides of the tabletop and the table legs may be disposed between the side rails when thelegs are in the collapsed position. Advantageously, because the siderails may be disposed along the edges of the table top, the legs mayhave a width that is approximately equal to or slightly less than thewidth of the table top. Thus, for example, the legs could include twosupport portions that are disposed proximate the edges of the table topand the support portions could be separated by a distance that isapproximately equal to or slightly smaller than the width of the tabletop. The legs could also have a foot that has a length that isapproximately equal to or slightly smaller than the width of the tabletop. Advantageously, because the legs may have a width and/or a footthat has a length that is approximately equal to the width of the tabletop, that may allow a very sturdy and stable table to be created.

A further aspect is a table that may include a table top with agenerally planar upper surface and a generally planar lower surface. Forexample, the table may include a table top that does not include anygenerally downwardly extending portions or protrusions such as a lip.This may make the table top easier to manufacture if it does not includeany downwardly extending projections. In addition, it may decrease theamount of plastic or other material used to create the table top. Inaddition, the table may include a table top with a generally planarupper surface. Advantageously, the generally planar lower surface andthe generally planar upper surface may be separated by a generallyconstant distance. In addition, the upper and lower surfaces may beseparated by a relatively small distance so that, for example, arelatively lightweight table may be created. For example, the upper andlower surfaces may be separated by a distance that is generally equal toor smaller than the height of the frame, if the table has such a frame.Significantly, this may allow a strong, sturdy and lightweight table tobe constructed. It will be appreciated, however, that the upper andlower surfaces of the table top may be separated by any suitabledistance and the upper and lower surfaces do not have to be separated bya generally constant distance.

Another aspect is a table that may include one or more corner guards.The corner guards may help protect the frame or other portions of thetable from damage that can occur, for example, from dropping the table.The corner guards may also be replaceable and/or repairable. Thus, ifthe corner guard is damaged, then it may be replaced or repaired.Significantly, the corner guards may be replaced or repaired by theconsumer, retailer and/or manufacturer. In addition, the corner guardsmay allow a skirt or other objects to be easily connected to the table.Further, the corner guards may facilitate stacking and/or nesting of thetables. Finally, the corner guards may be used to create a table with aparticular style or design. For example, the corner guards may be usedto provide a color contrast with the table top and/or the frame. Thismay allow a table with improved aesthetics and appearance to be created.

Yet another aspect is a table that may include one or more corner guardswhich aid in attaching a frame and/or legs to the table. For example,the corner guards may be attached to the table top and the frame may beconnected to the corner guards. Thus, the frame may not be directlyconnected to the table top. Advantageously, if the corner guards attachthe frame to the table top, then additional fasteners may not berequired to attach the frame to the table top. Fasteners, however, couldbe used to connect the corner guards and/or frame to the table top, ifdesired. On the other hand, the frame may be attached to the table topand the corner guards may be attached to the frame. Thus, the frameand/or corner guards may be attached to the table top depending, forexample, upon the intended design of the table. It will be appreciatedthat the corner guards and/or frame could be integrally formed with thetable top as part of a one-piece structure, if desired.

Still yet another aspect is a table that may include one or more cornerguards which may be aligned with a portion of the table. For example,the corner guards may include a portion that is generally aligned withan outer edge of the table top. The corner guards could also include twoor more portions that are generally aligned with two or more portions ofthe table top. In particular, the corner guards could include oneportion that is generally aligned with a first side of the table top anda second portion that is generally aligned with a second side of thetable top. It will be understood that all or a portion of the cornerguards may be spaced inwardly from the sides of the table top, ifdesired.

A further aspect is a table that may include one or more corner guardswhich may be generally aligned with at least a portion of the frame. Forexample, the corner guards may include a portion that is aligned with aside and/or end rail of the frame. The corner guards could also includetwo or more portions that are generally aligned with two or moreportions of the frame. For instance, the corner guards could include afirst portion that is generally aligned with a side rail of the frameand a second portion that is generally aligned with an end rail of theframe.

A still further aspect is a table that may include one or more cornerguards which may be generally aligned with at least a portion of theframe and at least a portion of the table top. For example, the cornerguards may include a portion that is generally aligned with an outeredge of the table top and a portion that is generally aligned with atleast a portion of the frame. The corner guards could also include twoor more portions that are generally aligned with the table top and/orthe frame. Thus, for instance, the corner guards could include a firstportion that is generally aligned with a first side of the table top anda first portion of the frame, and a second portion that is generallyaligned with a second side of the table top and a second portion of theframe.

Another aspect is a table that may include one or more corner guardswhich are generally aligned with portions of the table. For example, thecorner guards could include an upper surface that is generally alignedwith a lower portion of the table. The corner guards could also includea lower surface that is generally aligned with a lower surface of theframe. Advantageously, this may facilitate shipping, transportationand/or stacking of the table.

Yet another aspect is a table that may include one or more corner guardswith receiving portions that are sized and configured to receive atleast a portion of a frame. In particular, the corner guards may includeone or more receiving portions that are sized and configured to receivethe side and/or end rails of the frame. Advantageously, the receivingportions may allow the frame to be connected to the table withoutdirectly connecting the frame to the table top.

Still yet another aspect is a table that may include a table top that issized and configured to protect one or more portions of the frame fromdamage. For example, the table top may include one or more sides oredges that are sized and configured to extend past the sides or edges ofthe frame. Accordingly, the table top may absorb some or all of thestresses or forces applied to the table, which may prevent the framefrom being damaged. In particular, because the table top may beconstructed from relatively durable and resilient materials, such asblow-molded plastic, the table top may help prevent the frame from beingdamaged. Thus, the table top may help protect the exposed portions ofthe frame from damage, which may be particularly advantageously if theexposed portions of the frame have painted or finished surfaces becausesuch forces and impacts can leave scars or other visible blemishes onthe painted or finished surfaces. Additionally, because damage to thetable top may be less noticeable than damage to the frame, it may bedesirable to use the table top to help protect the frame from damage.Advantageously, this may help keep the table looking like new.

A further another aspect is a table that may include one or more legsattached to the table top and the legs may be connected to the table topby braces. The braces, for example, may include one end that isconnected to the table top and another end that is connected to a leg.Advantageously, if the legs have a pedestal style, that legs may helphide the braces from view and these legs may allow a table with a morepleasing appearance to be created. It will be appreciated that the tablecould include any suitable type of legs and, for example, the legs mayalso be sized and configured to provide increased leg room and spaceunder the table and the legs could be adjustable in height, if desired.

A still further aspect is a table that may be relativelystraight-forward to assemble. Advantageously, this may allow the tableto be quickly and easily manufactured. In addition, this may allow thetable to be shipped in an unassembled configuration and the consumer maybe able to assemble the table. This may allow manufacturing and shippingcosts to be decreased. It may also allow labor costs to be reduced.

Another aspect is a table may include one or more components that can bequickly and easily manufactured. For example, the table top may includeupper and lower portions that have generally planar surfaces, which maysimplify the manufacturing process and allow the table top to be quicklyand easily manufactured. In addition, the legs and/or frame may bequickly and easily attached to the table top, which may reducemanufacturing costs.

Yet another aspect is a table that may include a table top constructedfrom blow-molded plastic with a hollow interior portion formed duringthe blow molding process. The table may also include support membersmovable relative to the table top between a first position in which thesupport member extends outwardly from the table top and a secondposition in which the support member is positioned proximate the lowersurface of the table top. In addition, the table may include a firstside rail generally aligned with a first side of the table top, a secondside rail generally aligned with a second side of the table top, a firstend rail generally aligned with a first end of the table top and asecond end rail generally aligned with a second end of the table top.The table may further include X a first guard member that is connectedto the first side rail and the first end rail, a second guard memberthat is connected to the second side rail and the first end rail, athird guard member that is connected to the first side rail and thesecond end rail, and a forth guard member that is connected to thesecond side rail and the second end rail. The guard members may beselectively connected to the table top, side rails and/or end rails.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more fully apparent from the following detaileddescription of preferred embodiments and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments tofurther clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features ofthe present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depictonly preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended tolimits its scope. The invention will be described and explained withadditional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a table,illustrating the legs in an extended position;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the table shown in FIG. 1,illustrating the legs in a collapsed position;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the table shownin FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the table shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of atable, illustrating corner guards disposed proximate the corners of thetable top;

FIG. 6 is a top view of the table shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a front view of the table shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the table shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a table,illustrating the legs in a collapsed position;

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cornerfor a table;

FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is another bottom perspective view of the corner shown in FIG.10;

FIG. 13 is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of a corner for atable;

FIG. 14 is another side view of the corner shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is another perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of still another exemplary embodiment of acorner for a table;

FIG. 18 is another perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is yet another perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is still another perspective view of the corner shown in FIG.17;

FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view of a further exemplary embodimentof a corner for a table;

FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is another bottom perspective view of the corner shown in FIG.21; and

FIG. 24 is another top perspective view of the corner shown in FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is generally directed towards tables. Theprinciples of the present invention, however, are not limited to tables.It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, thetable disclosed herein can be successfully used in connection with othertypes of furniture and equipment.

Additionally, to assist in the description of the table, words such astop, bottom, front, rear, right and left may be used to describe theaccompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the presentinvention can be located in a variety of desired positions includingvarious angles, sideways and even upside down. A detailed description ofthe table now follows.

As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of the table 10 includes atable top 12. The table top 12 is preferably constructed from alightweight material such as plastic. In particular, the table top 12can be constructed from plastic, such as high density polyethylene, butother materials with suitable characteristics may also be used toconstruct the table top. The plastic table top 12 is desirably formed bya blow-molding process because, for example, it may allow a relativelystrong, lightweight, rigid and sturdy table top to be quickly and easilymanufactured. In particular, the blow-molded table top 12 may berelatively lightweight because it may include a hollow interior portion.In addition, the blow-molded plastic table top 12 may be constructedfrom less plastic than conventional plastic table tops, which may savemanufacturing costs and reduce consumer costs. Further, the blow-moldedtable top 12 can be manufactured with relatively thin outer walls, whichmay allow the table top to cool more quickly during the manufacturingprocess and that may decrease both manufacturing time and costs.

The blow-molded plastic table top 12 can be constructed to form avariety of suitable shapes, configurations, sizes, designs and/or colorsdepending, for example, upon the intended use of table 10. For example,as shown in FIGS. 1-4, the table top 12 can be constructed with agenerally rectangular configuration and it may be used to create autility table. The utility table may have a length of four, six or eightfeet and a width of about two or three feet. One of ordinary skill inthe art will appreciate that the table top 12 can have other suitablesizes and configurations. For example, the table top can have a circularconfiguration with a diameter of about five feet or a generally squareconfiguration with sides two to four feet in length. Of course, theblow-molded table top 12 can have other suitable shapes, sizes andconfigurations depending, for example, upon the intended use of thetable 10.

The table top 12 is preferably constructed from blow-molded plasticbecause the blow-molded plastic table tops may be relatively durable,weather resistant and temperature insensitive. In addition, theblow-molded table top 12 may be corrosion resistant, rust resistant andit generally does not deteriorate over time. One skilled in the art,however, will appreciate that the table top 12 does not have to beconstructed from blow-molded plastic and other suitable materials and/orprocesses can be used to construct the table top depending, for example,upon the intended use of the table 10. For example, the table top 12could be constructed from other suitable types of plastic and the tabletop could be constructed using other suitable processes such asinjection molding, extrusion molding, compression molding and the like.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the table top 12 preferably has agenerally planar construction. For example, the table top 12 may have agenerally planar upper surface, which may allow the table to be used ina wide variety of situations and environments. The table top 12 may alsohave a lower surface that is spaced apart from the upper surface.Preferably the lower surface of the table top 12 has a generally planarconstruction. In particular, neither the upper nor the lower surfaces ofthe table top 12 preferably include any outwardly extending projections,such as a lip. Thus, both the upper and lower surfaces of the table top12 are preferably generally planar. In addition, if desired, the upperand lower surface of the table top 12 may be separated be a generallyconstant distance. Advantageously, the generally planar upper and lowersurfaces may allow the table top 12 to be quickly and easilymanufactured, which may decrease the manufacturing costs of the table10. Further, the generally planar upper and lower surfaces of the tabletop 12 may reduce the amount of materials required to construct thetable top, which may decrease the manufacturing costs of the table 10.This may also create a table top 12 with a relatively simple andstraightforward design. While the table top 12 preferably has agenerally planar upper and lower surface, the table top may include oneor more inwardly or outwardly extending portions. For example, asdiscussed below, the table top 12 may include one more depressions. Inaddition, if desired, the table top 12 could include one or moreoutwardly extending portions, such as a generally downwardly extendinglip, that may be formed in or attached to any desired portion of thetable top.

The table top 12 may include one or more features that are integrallyformed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. Forexample, the table top 12 may include one or more recesses formed in thelower surface of the table top, which may be sized and configured toreceive at least a portion of a table legs in the collapsed or storageposition. Advantageously, this may facilitate stacking of the tables 10and/or securing the table legs in the collapsed position. In addition,one or more depressions may be formed in the table top 12 and thedepressions may be sized and configured to increase the strength andstructural integrity of the table top. In greater detail, thedepressions may extend from one surface of the table top 12, such as thebottom surface, to an opposing surface, such as the top surface. Theends of the depressions may contact or engage the opposing surfaceand/or the ends of the depressions could be spaced apart from theopposing surface. The depressions may allow the table top 12 to beconstructed with thinner walls, which may allow the table top to coolfaster during the manufacturing process and may require less plastic tomanufacture. It will be appreciated that these and other features may beformed in or connected to the table top 12.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the table 10 may include one ormore legs or support pedestals 14. The legs 14 are preferably movablebetween an extended or use position in which the legs extend generallyoutwardly from the table top 12 and a collapsed or storage position inwhich the legs are positioned proximate and/or contact the table top.The legs 14 may include one or more elongated portions and the elongatedportions may be interconnected, if desired. For example, as shown inFIG. 2, the legs 14 may include two elongated portions that areinterconnected by a cross brace 16. As shown in FIG. 5, the legs 14 mayinclude only a single elongated portion. It will be appreciated that thelegs 14 may have a variety of suitable sizes, configurations and/ordesigns.

The table 10 may also include a frame 20 and the frame may include oneor more side rails 22 that are disposed along the sides, edges orperimeter of the table top 12. The side rails 22 may also extend atleast a majority of the length of the table top 12 and the side railsmay be generally aligned with the edges of the table top. For example,the side rails 22 may include an outer surface that is generally alignedwith an outer edge of the table top 12. The side rails 22, however,could be spaced apart from the outer edges of the table top 12.

Advantageously, because the side rails 22 may be disposed along theouter edges of the table top 12, the frame 20 may help support the edgesor extremities of the table top. This may allow a stronger table top 12to be formed because the edges of the table top may be supported by theframe 20. In addition, the frame 20 may help prevent damage to the tabletop 12. For example, the frame 20 may help prevent the table top 12 fromundesirably bending or deforming if a force or sudden impact is appliedto an edge of the table top. In addition, the frame 20 may help absorbvarious forces and/or prevent items from striking the table top 12.

If the side rails 22 are disposed proximate the edges of the table top12, then that may allow wider legs 14 to be attached to the table 10.For example, if the side rails 22 are generally aligned with the outeredges of the table top 12, then the legs 14 may have a width that isapproximately equal to or slightly less than the width of the table top.Thus, for example, the legs 14 could include two elongated portions thatare disposed proximate the edges of the table top 12 and the elongatedportions could be separated by a distance that is approximately equal toor slightly smaller than the width of the table top. The legs 14 couldalso have a foot that has a length that is approximately equal to orslightly smaller than the width of the table top 12. Advantageously,because the legs 14 may have a width and/or a foot that has a lengththat is approximately equal to the width of the table top 12, that mayallow a very sturdy and stable table to be created.

The frame 20 may also include connecting portions 24, which may bedisposed proximate the ends of the table top 12. As best seen in FIG. 2,the connecting portions 24 may be connected to the side rails 22. Theconnecting portions 24 may also be integrally formed with the side rails22 to create a unitary, one-piece frame 20. Of course, the connectingportions 24 and the side rails 22 do not have to be interconnected, theconnection portions could be spaced apart from the ends of the table,and the frame 20 could have other suitable shapes, sizes andconfigurations.

The frame 20 is preferably constructed from a relatively strong andrigid material, such as steel. Advantageously, the frame 20 may be usedto support all or a portion of the table top 12. It will be appreciated,however, that the frame 20 could be constructed from other materialswith suitable characteristics and the table 10 does not require theframe. In addition, while the frame 20 is preferably at least partiallydisposed along the exterior portions of the table top 12, the framecould be connected to any desired portions of the table top and theframe could have a variety of suitable shapes, configurations andarrangements depending, for example, upon the size and shape of thetable 10.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the legs 14 may be connected to acrossbar 26 and the crossbar may allow the legs to pivot between the useand storage positions. The crossbar 26, for example, may be rotatably orpivotally attached to the lower surface of the table top 12 using thebrackets 28 or other suitable fasteners. Thus, the legs 14 and/orcrossbar 26 may be independently connected to the table top 12. Thecrossbar 26 may also be rotatably attached to frame 20, if desired. Forexample, the crossbar 26 may be connected to the frame 20 by insertingat least a portion of the ends of the crossbar into a hole, recess orother opening formed in the side rails 22 of frame. The legs 14 and/orcrossbar 26 may also be attached to the table 10 by other suitablemechanisms or devices depending, for example, upon the intended use ofthe table 10. In addition, the legs 14 could include a crossbar, ifdesired.

The table 10 may also include one or more braces 18 that may helpstabilize the table and/or guide the legs 14 between the use and storagepositions. For example, as best seen in FIG. 2, a brace 18 may beconnected to each leg 14 and a support structure. The support structure,for example, may include a support member 30 that is disposed near thecenter of the table 10 and the support member may be attached to thelower surface of the table top 12 and/or frame 20 using the brackets 32or other suitable fasteners. It will be appreciated that other suitabletypes of braces 18, support structures and/or support members 30 may beused depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table 10.

The crossbars 26 and/or support member 30 may be used to connect theframe 20 to the table top 12. For example, if the crossbars 26 and/orsupport member 30 are connected to the frame 20, and the crossbars andsupport member are connected to the table top 12, then the frame mayalso be connected to the table top. On the other hand, the frame 20 maybe used to connect the crossbars 26 and/or the support member 30 to thetable top 12. The frame 20, crossbars 26 and/or support member 30 couldalso be connected to the table top 12 in other suitable configurationsand arrangements.

The legs 14, braces 18, frame 20, crossbars 26 and support members 30are preferably constructed of a strong material, such as metal. Inaddition, the legs 14, crossbars 26 and support members 30 arepreferably constructed from hollow, tubular members, which may decreasethe weight of the table 10. Of course, legs 14, braces 18, frame 20,crossbars 26 and support members 30 may be constructed from othersuitable materials and may have other appropriate shapes, sizes,configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon theintended use of the table 10.

As best seen in FIGS. 1-4, all or at least a portion of the frame 20 maybe exposed and visible to the user. That is, when the table 10 is in theuse position, all or at least a portion of the frame 20 is exposed andvisible to the user. Advantageously, if the frame 20 is visible, then acontrast between the table top 12 and the frame may be used to create astylish or fashionable table 10. For example, the table top 12 and theframe 20 may be constructed using different materials, textures andcolors. It will be understood, however, that the frame 20 does not haveto be exposed or visible to the user and the frame and/or table top 12could have any suitable combination of textures, colors, designs and thelike.

Advantageously, if at least a portion of the frame 20 is exposed, thenthat may create the impression, whether real or imaged, that the table10 is relatively strong. In addition, if at least a portion of the frame20 is disposed along the outer edges of the table top 12, then the frame20 may provide increased support for the edges or extremities of thetable top. Further, if the frame 20 is disposed along the outer edges ofthe table top 12, then the frame may help prevent the table top frombeing damaged. For example, the frame 20 may absorb impacts or forcesbecause it is disposed about the perimeter of the table top 12 thatotherwise would be applied directly to the table top. Accordingly, theframe may also help protect the table top from being dented, damaged orbroken.

On the other hand, the table top 12 may be sized and configured toprotect the frame 20. For example, as best seen in FIG. 4, the table top12 may include an upper surface 33, a lower surface 34 and outer edges35. In this exemplary embodiment, the side rails 22 of the frame 20 maybe spaced inwardly from the outer edges of the table top 12. With theedges 35 of the table top 12 extending past the outer portions of theframe 20, the table top may help prevent potentially damaging contactwith the frame. Thus, the table top 12 may be sized and configured tominimize or otherwise reduce the damage to the frame 20, which helpskeep the table 10 looking like new.

The table may also include one or more guards that are sized andconfigured to help protect the table. For example, as shown in FIGS.5-8, an exemplary table 60 may include a table top 62, legs 64, feet 66and end caps 68. The table 60 may also include a frame 72 with one ormore side rails 74. The edges of the side rails 74 may be generallyaligned with the edges 76 of the table top 62 to provide a generallyflat, planar outer surface. The edges of the side rails 74 and the edges76 of the table top 62, however, could be offset or spaced apart, ifdesired. It will be appreciated that the table 60 could also have othersuitable shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements depending, forexample, upon the intended use of the table.

The table 60 may include one or more guards that may be sized andconfigured to protect a portion of the table. As shown in theaccompanying figures, the table 60 may include corner guards 78 that aredisposed in each corner of the table. The exemplary table 60 shown inthe accompanying figures has a rectangular table top 12 with four cornerguards 78, but it will be appreciated that the number, size andconfiguration of the corner guards may depend upon the size, type andconfiguration of the table 60.

The corner guards 78 are preferably sized and configured to protect thecorners of the table. Accordingly, the corner guards 78 are preferablyconstructed from a relatively tough, durable, resilient and/or wearresistant material such plastic. The plastic corner guards may beconstructed using injection molding, rotary molding, compression moldingand the like. The corner guards 78 may be constructed using othersuitable materials and processes, if desired.

As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, at least a portion of the corner guards78 may be sized and configured to extend past the corners of the tableframe 72 and/or the corners of the table top 62. Thus, the corner guards78 advantageously may help prevent damage to the table top 62 and/or theframe 72 and/or the table top 62. The corner guards 78 may also provideimpact protection for the table 60. For example, the corner guards 78may form a bumper or cushion that absorbs energy if forces are appliedto the corner of the table 60.

The corner guards 78 may also be used to connect various portions of theframe 72. For example, the corner guards 78 may be used to connect theside rails, end rails and/or connecting members of the frame 72. Thecorner guards 78 may also help align and position the frame 72 in thedesired location. In order to facilitate connection of the frame 72 tothe corner guards 78, the corner guards may include one or morereceiving portions that are sized and configured to receive a portion ofthe frame. Advantageously, the frame 72 may be connected to the cornerguards 78 may a friction, snap or interference fit. The frame 72 mayalso be connected to the corner guards 78 by fasteners, adhesives andthe like. This may allow, for example, the frame 72 to be attached tothe table 60 by simply connecting the frame to the corner guards 78.Thus, the corner guards 78 may allow the table 60 to be quickly andeasily assembled, which may expedite the manufacturing process and allowthe consumer or retailer to assemble the table. This may also allow thetable 60 to be sold in an unassembled configuration, if desired. It willbe appreciated that the frame 72 and/or corner guards 78 may beconnected to the table 60 by any suitable process, device and the like.

The corner guards 78 may be permanently or selectively attached to thetable 60. If the corner guards 78 are selectively attached to the table60, then the corner guards may be repaired or replaced. Significantly,this may allow a consumer, retailer or manufacturer to repair the table60 if the corner guards are broken, worn or damaged. The corner guards78 could also be permanently attached to the table 60, if desired. Inaddition, the corner guards could be an integral part of the table 60,table top 62 and/or frame 72.

As best seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the lower portion of the corner guards 78may be sized and configured to extend beyond a lower portion of theframe 72. For example, the lower portion of the corner guards 78 mayextend beyond the lower surface of the side rails 74 of the table frame72. If the corner guards 78 extend beyond the lower portion of the frame72, then the corner guards may help protect the frame from damage. Inaddition, when the legs 64 are in the collapsed position, the cornerguards may help prevent damage to the legs 64. Thus, the corner guards78 may help protect the lower portion of the table 60 from damage whenthe table legs 64 are in the collapsed position.

The corner guards 78 may also facilitate stacking of the table 60. Forexample, a lower portion of the corner guards 78 of one table may besized and configured to contact, engage and/or abut a portion of anadjacent table, such as the table top 62, when the tables are stacked.Thus, the corner guards 78 may act as guides to facilitate stacking ofthe tables 60. The corner guards 78 may also assist in aligning thetables 60 when the tables are positioned adjacent to each other.Additionally, the corner guards 78 may help prevent one table fromdamaging an adjacent table when the tables are stacked or positionedadjacent to each other.

The corner guards 78 may help create a table 60 with an aestheticallypleasing design. For example, the corner guards 78 may create adistinction or dissimilarity between the table top 62, the frame 72and/or the corner guards 78 to create a stylish or fashionable table 60.For example, the table top 62, the frame 72 and/or the corner guards 78may be constructed using different materials, textures, colors and thelike to create a desired design, appearance and the like. It will beappreciated that while the various components of the table 60 may havedifferent colors, textures, materials and the like, one or more of thecomponents may have the same colors, textures, materials, and the like.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, the corner guards 78 may be positioned in eachcorner of the table top 62. A portion of the corner guards 78 may extendbeyond the outer edges of the table top 62 and/or the frame 72. Thecorner guards 78 may also be generally aligned with the table top 62and/or the frame 72, if desired. In addition, the corner guards 78 mayinclude one or more portions that are generally flush with the table 60and one or more portions that are generally spaced apart from the table.For example, the corner guards 78 could be generally aligned with theouter edges of the table top 62 and spaced apart from the frame 72. Onthe other hand, the corner guards 78 could be spaced apart from theouter edges of the table top 62 and generally aligned with the frame 72.It will be appreciated that the table top 62, frame 72 and/or cornerguards 78 could have a variety of suitable configurations andarrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the table60.

As seen in FIG. 9, another exemplary embodiment of a table 80 includes atable top 82 with legs 84, 86 that are preferably movable relative tothe table top between a collapsed position and an extended position. Ingreater detail, the legs 84, 86 may be connected to or include crossbars88, 90 respectively, and the crossbars may be pivotally connected to thetable top 82 by braces 92, 94. Each of the legs 84, 86 may include twoelongated portions that are spaced apart and interconnected by aconnecting members 96. As shown in FIG. 9, the elongated portions of thelegs 84, 86 may have a generally straight configuration and the legs maybe offset, which may permit legs with an extended length to be used. Itwill be appreciated that the legs 84, 86 may have other desirable shapesand configurations depending, for example, upon the intended use of thetable. It will also be appreciated that the table 80 may have otherfeatures and characteristics similar to the table tops 12 and 62, butthe table could have other suitable features and characteristics.

As discussed above, various types of tables, such as the tables 10, 60and 80, may have a variety of suitable shapes, sizes, configurations,arrangements and the like. These tables may also include an assortmentof features such as corner guards. Exemplary embodiments of cornerguards that may be used in connection with these or other suitable typesof tables are discussed in further detail below. It will be understoodthat these corner guards may have various suitable shapes, sizes,configurations, arrangements and the like depending, for example, uponthe particular type of table. Thus, while the following corner guardsare illustrated and discussed in connection with a table that has aframe and a corner formed at a right angle, the corner guards could beused in connection with other appropriate types of tables.

As shown in FIGS. 10-24, a corner guard is preferably disposed in eachcorner of the table top and the corner guard is preferably constructedfrom a relatively tough, durable, resilient and/or wear resistantmaterial, such plastic, rubber and the like. Thus, both the table topand the corner guard may be constructed from similar or differentmaterials. If the corner guard is constructed from plastic, it may befrom suitable processes such as injection molding, rotary molding,compression molding and the like. Therefore, both the corner guard andthe table top could be constructed from the same or different processes.It will be appreciated, however, that the corner guard and/or table topmay be constructed using other suitable materials and processes. If thecorner guards are constructed from different materials and/or processes,then the corner guards and table top may have different characteristicssuch as being more (or less) tough, durable, resilient, wear resistantand/or flexible. Further, if the table includes more than one cornerguard, then the different corner guards may be constructed usingdifferent materials and/or processes.

The corner guards may be formed separately from the table top. This mayallow the corner guard to be selectively attached and/or detached fromthe table top. This may facilitate the manufacturing process because thecorner guards could be attached to the table during or after themanufacturing process. This may also allow a retailer or consumer toattach the corner guard to the table top. In addition, this may allowthe corner guards to be easily repaired and/or replaced. The cornerguards may be attached to the table by fasteners, adhesives and thelike. The corner guards may also be attached by a snap, friction and/orinterference fit, if desired. It will be appreciated the corner guardsand the table top may be integrally formed as part of a unitary,one-piece structure.

In greater detail, as shown in the accompanying figures, the cornerguards may be attached to a portion of the table such as the table topand/or frame. For example, the table top may include a receiving portionthat is sized and configured to facilitate attachment of the cornerguard to the table. In particular, the table top may include one or morerecesses, channels, grooves, inwardly extending portions, outwardlyextending portions or other portions that are sized and configuredreceive at least a portion of a corner guard. The receiving portions maybe sized and configured to receive and retain at least a portion of acorner guard using a snap, friction and/or interference fit, which mayhelp allow the corner guard to be selectively attached and detached fromthe table top. Desirably, the receiving portions are integrally formedin the table top during a blow molding process or other molding process,which may help the receiving portions to be quickly and easily formed.It will be appreciated, however, that other manufacturing processes maybe used to form the receiving portions in the table top and that thetable top does not require any receiving portions.

A receiving portion of the table top may also be sized and configured tohelp generally align one or more portions of the corner guard with oneor more portions of the table top and/or a table frame. For example, thereceiving portion may be sized and configured to help position a portionof the corner guard generally in the same plane as a portion of thetable top and/or a portion of the table frame. Also, for example, thereceiving portion may be sized and configured to help position a portionof the corner guard generally parallel to a portion of the table topand/or a portion of the table frame. It will be understood, however,that a corner guard does not require any portion to be generally alignedwith any portion of a table top or a table frame.

As shown in FIGS. 10-24, a receiving portion of the table top may alsobe sized and configured to help position an edge of the corner guard toabut an edge of a portion of the table top and/or at least one edge of aportion of the frame. In addition, a portion of the table top and thecorner guard may be generally aligned. When the portion of the table topand the corner guard are generally aligned, the table top and the cornerguard may touch, engage or contact. It will be appreciated, however,that the table top and the corner guard could also be spaced apart. Inaddition, when the portion of the table top and the corner guard aregenerally aligned, the surfaces of the table top and the corner guardmay be in the same plane, parallel, flush or at an angle. Desirably,when the portion of the table top and the corner guard are generallyaligned, the surfaces mate, join, match, correspond and/or complementeach other. Advantageously, this may help the corner guard create atable with an esthetically pleasing design and appearance.

As shown in the accompanying figures, a frame may be used to connect thecorner guards to the table top. For example, if the table top isconnected to the frame, and the frame is connected to the corner guards,then the corner guards may also be connected to the table top. Forexample, the corner guard may include a receiving portion that is sizedand configured to facilitate attachment of the corner guard to theframe. In particular, the corner guard may include one or more recesses,channels, grooves, inwardly extending portions, outwardly extendingportions or other portions that are sized and configured receive atleast a portion of the frame. The receiving portions may be sized andconfigured to receive and retain at least a portion of the frame using asnap, friction and/or interference fit, which may help allow the cornerguard to be selectively attached and detached from the frame. Desirably,the receiving portions are integrally formed in the corner guard duringan injection molding process or other molding process, which may helpthe receiving portions to be quickly and easily formed. It will beappreciated, however, that other manufacturing processes may be used toform the receiving portions in the corner guard and that the cornerguard does not require any receiving portions. It will also beappreciated that the corner guard may be connected to the table top, thetable frame, and/or other portions of the table.

In greater detail, as shown in FIGS. 10-12, an exemplary corner guard 98may be attached to a corner of a table top 100. The corner guard 98 mayinclude a first portion 102 that is generally aligned with a first side104 of the table top 100 and a second portion 106 that is generallyaligned with a second side 108 of the table top. The corner guard 98 mayalso include a first ridge 110 that is generally aligned with a lowerportion 112 of the table top 100 and a second ridge 114 that isgenerally aligned with another lower portion 112 of the table top. Inaddition, other portions of the corner guard 98 may be generally alignedwith other portions of a table top 100, if desired. On the other hand,all or a portion of the corner guard 98 may be spaced apart from thetable top 100.

The corner guard 98 may also include one or more portions 118 that aregenerally aligned with the frame. For example, a portion of the cornerguard 98 may be generally aligned with a lower portion of a side rail120 and a lower portion of an end rail 122. It will be understood thatother portions of the guard 98 may also be generally flush with otherportions of a frame. All or a portion of the corner guard 98 may also bespaced apart from the frame.

As shown in FIGS. 10-12, the corner guard 98 may include one or morereceiving portions that are sized and configured to receive at least aportion of the frame 116. For example, a receiving portion 124 mayreceive a portion of the side rail 120 and a receiving portion 126 mayreceive a portion of the end rail 122. Advantageously, the receivingportions may facilitate connection of the frame 116 and the cornerguards 98. It will be understood, however, that the frame 116 and thecorner guards 98 could be connected in other know ways or methods. Theframe 116, however, does not have to be connected to the corner guards98.

The corner guard 98 may be sized and configured to facilitate stackingof a table. For example, the table top 100 may include receivingportions 128 that are sized and configured receive at least a portion ofthe corner guard 98. This may allow the tables to be aligned and mayprevent the adjacent tables from being damaged.

As shown in FIGS. 10-12, the corner guard 98 may include one or moreangled or tapered portions. The tapered portions may taper from a firstportion that is generally flush with a side of the table top 100 to asecond portion that is generally spaced apart from the side of the tabletop. For example, the corner guard 98 may include a tapered portion 130that tapers from a first portion that is generally flush with the side104 of the table top 100 to a second portion that is generally spacedapart from the side 104; and the guard 98 may include a tapered portion132 that tapers from a first portion that is generally flush with theside 108 of the table top 100 to a second portion that is generallyspaced apart from the side 108. The tapered portions 130, 132 may betapered to the side rails 120, 122 of the frame. For example, if theside rails 120, 122 of the frame are spaced inwardly from the sides 104,108 of the table top 100, then the tapered portions 130, 132 may bealigned with this portion of the frame. The frame, however, does nothave to be spaced apart from the edges of the table top 100 and thecorner guards 98 do not require any tapered portions.

Another exemplary embodiment of a corner guard is shown in FIGS. 13-16and it may include some features and attributes that are similar to thecorner guard 98 discussed above. In greater detail, the corner guard 134may be connected to a table top 136 and one or more portions of thecorner guard may be generally aligned with one or more portions of thetable. For example, the corner guard 134 may include a first portion 138that is generally aligned with a first side 140 of the table top 136 anda second portion 142 that is generally aligned with a second side 144 ofthe table top. It will be appreciated that the corner guard 134 couldalso be spaced apart from the sides 140, 144 of the table top 136.

The corner guard 134 may include one or more portions that are generallyaligned with the frame. For example, the corner guard 134 may begenerally aligned with the side rails of the frame. In addition, thecorner guard 134 may include one or more receiving portions that aresized and configured to receive at least a portion of the frame. Forexample, a first receiving portion may receive a portion of the siderail 150 and a second receiving portion may receive a portion of the endrail 152.

The corner guard 134 may also be sized and configured to facilitatestacking of a table. For example, the corner guard 134 may include aprojection 148 and the table top 136 may include a receiving portionthat is sized and configured receive to receive the projection. Inaddition, the corner guard 134 may include a first tapered portion 156that tapers from a first portion that is generally flush with the side140 of the table top 136 to a second portion that is generally spacedapart from the side 140. The corner guard 134 may also include a secondtapered portion 158 that tapers from a first portion that is generallyflush with the side 144 of the table top 136 to a second portion that isgenerally spaced apart from the side 144.

Another exemplary embodiment of a corner guard 160 is shown in FIGS.17-20 and it may include some features and attributes similar to thecorner guards 98 and 134. The corner guard 160 is attached to a tabletop 162 and the corner guard may include a first portion 164 that isgenerally aligned with a first side 166 of the table top 162 and asecond portion 168 that is generally aligned with a second side 170 ofthe table top. The corner guard 160 may also include one or moreportions that are generally aligned with the frame 172. The corner guard160 may include one or more portions that are generally aligned with theframe. In addition, the corner guard may include a downwardly extendingprojection 174, which may facilitate stacking of the table. Forinstance, if the table top 166 includes a receiving portion, theprojection 174 may be sized and configured to be at least partiallydisposed within the receiving portion to facilitate stacking of thetable. Further, the corner guard 160 may include a first taperingportion 180 that tapers from a first portion that is generally flushwith the side 166 of the table top 162 to a second portion that isgenerally spaced apart from the side 166; and a second tapering portion182 that tapers from a first portion that is generally flush with theside 170 of the table top 162 to a second portion that is generallyspaced apart from the side 170.

As shown in FIG. 19, the table top 162 may include one or more channels184 that are sized and configured to receive at least a portion of thetable frame 172. In particular, as shown in FIG. 19, the channel 184 mayreceive at least a portion of the side rail 176.

Another exemplary embodiment of a corner guard 184 is shown in FIGS.21-24 and it may include some features and attributes similar to thecorner guards 98, 134 and 160. For example, the corner guard 184 may beattached to a table top 186 and one or more portions of the corner guardmay be generally aligned with one or more portions of a table top. Inparticular, the corner guard 184 may include a first portion 188 that isgenerally aligned with a lower portion 190 of the table top 186 and asecond portion 192 that is generally aligned with the lower portion 190of the table top. The corner guard 184 may also be generally alignedwith one or more portions of a frame 194. For example, the guard 184 mayinclude a portion 196 that is generally aligned with a lower portion ofa side rail 198 and a lower portion of an end rail 200 of the frame 194.

The corner guard 184 may also include one or more receiving portionsthat are sized and configured to receive a portion of the frame 194. Forexample, a receiving portion 202 may receive a portion of the side rail198 and a receiving portion 204 may receive a portion of the end rail200. In addition, the corner guard 184 may be sized and configured tofacilitate stacking of the table. For example, the table top 186 mayinclude a receiving portion 206 that is sized and configured receive aportion 196 of the corner guard 184. The corner guard 184 may furtherinclude a first tapered portion 208 that tapers from a first portionthat is generally aligned with a side 210 of the table top 186 to asecond portion that is generally spaced apart from the side 210; and asecond tapered portion 212 that tapers from a first portion that isgenerally aligned with a side 214 of the table top to a second portionthat is generally spaced apart from the side 214.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the corner guards 98, 134, 160,184 may have various suitable shapes, sizes, arrangements andconfigurations. In addition, all or a portion of the corner guards 98,134, 160, 184 may be spaced inwardly from the outer edges of the tabletop, aligned with the outer edges of the table top or extend outwardlybeyond the outer edges of the table top. Further, all or a portion ofthe corner guards 98, 134, 160, 184 may be spaced inwardly from theframe, aligned with the frame or extend outwardly beyond the frame. Thecorner guards 98, 134, 160, 184 may also form part of the table top, ifdesired, and the corner guards could be integrally formed with the tabletop or attached to the table top.

It will be appreciated that the corner guards may be used with a varietyof different tables, and the corner guards and tables may include otherfeatures, such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/888,166, which was filed Jul. 9, 2004; U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 60/485,817, which was filed Jul. 9, 2003; and U.S.provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/485,754, which was filed Jul.9, 2003. Further, the corner guards and/or tables may also includefeatures such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/949,777, which was filed Sep. 24, 2004; U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 60/513,161, which was filed Oct. 20, 2003; and U.S.design Pat. application serial No. 29/192,259, which was filed Oct. 20,2003. Each of these applications is expressly incorporated by referencein its entirety.

Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferredembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, thescope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claimswhich follow.

1. A table comprising: a table top constructed from molded plastic andincluding a hollow interior portion that is formed during the moldingprocess, the table top including an upper surface, a lower surface, afirst side, a second side, a first end and a second end; a frameincluding a first side rail and a second side rail; at least one supportmember movable relative to the table top between an extended position inwhich the support member generally extends outwardly from the table topand a collapsed position in which the support member is generallypositioned between the side rails of the frame; a first corner guardconnected to the table top, at least a portion of the first corner guardbeing received within a first receiving portion formed in the table top,a portion of the first corner guard being generally aligned with thefirst side of the table top, a portion of the first corner guard beinggenerally aligned with the first end of the table top; a second cornerguard connected to the table top, at least a portion of the secondcorner guard being received within a second receiving portion formed inthe side of the table top, a portion of the second corner guard beinggenerally aligned with the first side of the table top, a portion of thesecond corner guard being generally aligned with the second end of thetable top; a third corner guard connected to the table top, at least aportion of the third corner guard being received within a thirdreceiving portion formed in the table top, a portion of the third cornerguard being generally aligned with the second side of the table top, aportion of the third corner guard being generally aligned with thesecond end of the table top; and a fourth corner guard connected to thetable top, at least a portion of the fourth corner guard being receivedwithin a fourth receiving portion formed in the table top, a portion ofthe fourth corner guard being generally aligned with the second side ofthe table top, a portion of the fourth corner guard being generallyaligned with the first end of the table top.
 2. The table as in claim 1,wherein a portion of the first corner guard is generally aligned withthe lower surface of the table top; wherein a portion of the secondcorner guard is generally aligned with the lower surface of the tabletop; wherein a portion of the third corner guard is generally alignedwith the lower surface of the table top, and wherein a portion of thefourth corner guard is generally aligned with the lower surface of thetable top.
 3. The table as in claim 1, wherein a portion of the firstcorner guard is generally aligned with a lower surface of the first siderail; wherein a portion of the second corner guard is generally alignedwith the lower surface of the first side rail; wherein a portion of thethird corner guard is generally aligned with a lower surface of thesecond side rail; and wherein a portion of the fourth corner guard isgenerally aligned with the lower surface of the second side rail.
 4. Thetable as in claim 1, wherein the first corner guard includes a receivingportion that is sized and configured to selectively receive a portion ofthe first side rail; wherein the second corner guard includes areceiving portion that is sized and configured to selectively receive aportion of the first side rail; wherein the third corner guard includesa receiving portion that is sized and configured to selectively receivea portion of the second side rail; and wherein the fourth corner guardincludes a receiving portion that is sized and configured to selectivelyreceive a portion of the second side rail.
 5. The table as in claim 1,wherein the frame further includes a first end rail and a second endrail; wherein a portion of the first corner guard is generally alignedwith a a lower surface of the first side rail, and a portion of thefirst corner guard is generally aligned with a lower surface of thefirst end rail; wherein a portion of the second corner guard isgenerally aligned with the lower surface of the first side rail, and aportion of the second corner guard is generally aligned with a lowersurface of the second end rail; wherein a portion of the third cornerguard is generally aligned with a lower surface of the second side rail,and a portion of the third corner guard is generally aligned with thelower surface of the second end rail; and wherein a portion of thefourth corner guard is generally aligned with the lower surface of thesecond side rail, and a portion of the fourth corner guard is generallyaligned with the lower surface of the first end rail.
 6. The table as inclaim 1, wherein the frame further includes a first end rail and asecond end rail; wherein the first corner guard includes a firstreceiving portion that is sized and configured to selectively receive aportion of the first side rail and a second receiving portion that issized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the first endrail; wherein the second corner guard includes a first receiving portionthat is sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of thefirst side rail and a second receiving portion that is sized andconfigured to selectively receive a portion of the second end rail;wherein the third corner guard includes a first receiving portion thatis sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the secondside rail and a second receiving portion that is sized and configured toselectively receive a portion of the second end rail; and wherein thefourth corner guard includes a first receiving portion that is sized andconfigured to selectively receive a portion of the second side rail anda second receiving portion that is sized and configured to selectivelyreceive a portion of the first end rail.
 7. The table as in claim 1,wherein the first corner guard includes a projection extending beyond alower surface of the table frame, the projection sized and configured tobe at least partially received by a corresponding receiving portionformed in an upper surface of another table to facilitate stacking. 8.The table as in claim 1, wherein the first corner guard includes atapering position that tapers from a first position that is generallyaligned with an outer edge of the table top to a second position that isgenerally spaced apart from the outer edge of the table top; wherein thesecond corner guard includes a tapering position that tapers from afirst position that is generally aligned with the outer edge of thetable top to a second position that is generally spaced apart from theouter edge of the table top; wherein the third corner guard includes atapering position that tapers from a first position that is generallyaligned with the outer edge of the table top to a second position thatis generally spaced apart from the outer edge of the table top; andwherein the fourth corner guard includes a tapering position that tapersfrom a first position that is generally aligned with the outer edge ofthe table top to a second position that is generally spaced apart fromthe outer edge of the table top.
 9. A table comprising: a table topconstructed from molded plastic and including a hollow interior portionthat is formed during the molding process; a frame including a firstmetal side rail and a second metal side rail; at least one supportmember movable relative to the table top between an extended position inwhich the support member generally extends outwardly from the table topand a collapsed position in which the support member is generallypositioned between the side rails of the frame; a first corner guardincluding a receiving portion that is sized and configured toselectively receive a portion of the frame, the first corner guard beingformed separately from the table top; a second corner guard including areceiving portion that is sized and configured to selectively receive aportion of the frame, the second corner guard being formed separatelyfrom the table top; a third corner guard including a receiving portionthat is sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of theframe, the third corner guard being formed separately from the tabletop; and a fourth corner guard including a receiving portion that issized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the frame, thefourth corner guard being formed separately from the table top.
 10. Thetable as in claim 9, wherein the receiving portion of the first cornerguard is sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of thefirst side rail; wherein the receiving portion of the second cornerguard is sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of thefirst side rail; wherein the receiving portion of the third corner guardis sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the secondside rail; and wherein the receiving portion of the fourth corner guardis sized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the secondside rail.
 11. The table as in claim 9, wherein a portion of the firstcorner guard is generally aligned with a first side of the table top,and a portion of the first corner guard is generally aligned with afirst end of the table top; wherein a portion of the second corner guardis generally aligned with the first side of the table top, and a portionof the second corner guard is generally aligned with a second end of thetable top; wherein a portion of the third corner guard is generallyaligned with a second side of the table top, and a portion of the thirdcorner guard is generally aligned with the second end of the table top;and wherein a portion of the fourth corner guard is generally alignedwith the second side of the table top, and a portion of the fourthcorner guard is generally aligned with the first end of the table top.12. The table as in claim 9, wherein a portion of the first corner guardis generally aligned with a lower surface of the table top; wherein aportion of the second corner guard is generally aligned with the lowersurface of the table top; wherein a portion of the third corner guard isgenerally aligned with the lower surface of the table top; and wherein aportion of the fourth corner guard is generally aligned with the lowersurface of the table top.
 13. The table as in claim 9, wherein a portionof the first corner guard is generally aligned with a first portion of alower surface of the first side rail, wherein a portion of the secondcorner guard is generally aligned with a second portion of the lowersurface of the first side rail, wherein a portion of the third cornerguard is generally aligned with a first portion of a lower surface ofthe second side rail, and wherein a portion of the fourth corner guardis generally aligned with a second portion of the lower surface of thesecond side rail.
 14. The table as in claim 9, wherein the frame furtherincludes a first end rail and a second end rail; wherein a portion ofthe first corner guard is generally aligned with a lower surface of thefirst side rail, and a portion of the first corner guard is generallyaligned with a lower surface of the first end rail; wherein a portion ofthe second corner guard is generally aligned with the lower surface ofthe first side rail, and a portion of the second corner guard isgenerally aligned with a lower surface of the second end rail; wherein aportion of the third corner guard is generally aligned with a lowersurface of the second side rail, and a portion of the third corner guardis generally aligned with the lower surface of the second end rail; andwherein a portion of the fourth corner guard is generally aligned withthe lower surface of the second side rail, and wherein a portion of thefourth corner guard is generally aligned with the lower surface of thefirst end rail.
 15. The table as in claim 9, wherein the frame furtherincludes a first end rail and a second end rail; wherein at least onereceiving portion of the first corner guard is sized and configured toselectively receive a portion of the first side rail, and at least onereceiving portion of the first corner guard is sized and configured toselectively receive a portion of the first end rail; wherein at leastone receiving portion of the second corner guard is sized and configuredto selectively receive a portion of the first side rail, and at leastone receiving portion of the second corner guard is sized and configuredto selectively receive a portion of the second end rail; wherein atleast one receiving portion of the third corner guard is sized andconfigured to selectively receive a portion of the second side rail, andat least one receiving portion of the third corner guard is sized andconfigured to selectively receive a portion of the second end rail; andwherein at least one receiving portion of the fourth corner guard issized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the second siderail, and at least one receiving portion of the fourth corner guard issized and configured to selectively receive a portion of the first endrail.
 16. The table as in claim 9, wherein the first corner guardincludes a projection extending beyond a lower surface of the tableframe, the projection sized and configured to be at least partiallyreceived by a corresponding receiving portion formed in an upper surfaceof another table to facilitate stacking.
 17. The table as in claim 9,wherein the first corner guard includes a tapering position that tapersfrom a first position that is generally aligned with an outer edge ofthe table top to a second position that is generally spaced apart fromthe outer edge of the table top; wherein the second corner guardincludes a tapering position that tapers from a first position that isgenerally aligned with the outer edge of the table top to a secondposition that is generally spaced apart from the outer edge of the tabletop; wherein the third corner guard includes a tapering position thattapers from a first position that is generally aligned with the outeredge of the table top to a second position that is generally spacedapart from the outer edge of the table top; and wherein the fourthcorner guard includes a tapering position that tapers from a firstposition that is generally aligned with the outer edge of the table topto a second position that is generally spaced apart from the outer edgeof the table top.
 18. A table comprising: a table top constructed frommolded plastic and including a hollow interior portion that is formedduring the molding process, the table top including an upper surface anda lower surface; at least one support member movable relative to thetable top between an extended position in which the support membergenerally extends outwardly from the table top and a collapsed positionin which the support member is generally proximate the lower surface ofthe table top; and a first corner guard connected to the table top, atleast a portion of the first corner guard being received within a firstreceiving portion formed in the table top, at least a portion of thefirst corner guard being generally aligned with a first portion of thetable top.
 19. The table as in claim 18, wherein the first corner guardincludes a projection sized and configured to be at least partiallyreceived by a corresponding receiving portion formed in an upper surfaceof a table to facilitate stacking.
 20. A corner guard for a table, thecorner guard comprising: a first portion sized and configured to bereceived within a first receiving portion formed in a table top of atable; a second portion sized and configured to be generally alignedwith a first side of the table top; and a third portion sized andconfigured to be generally aligned with a first end of the table top.21. The corner guard as in claim 20, further comprising a fourth portionsized and configured to be generally aligned with a lower surface of aside rail of a table frame of the table.